Discover the healing art of reflexology in this introductory course. Reflexology is a therapeutic bodywork modality that involves applying pressure techniques to specific areas of the feet, hands, and ears to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and support overall well-being. This course is designed for beginners who are interested in exploring the fundamentals of reflexology, its benefits, and practical techniques.

Lecture Topics:

1. Origins and Theories of Reflexology – we’ll look at the history and theories of foot therapies spanning some 5,000 years of healing arts from India, China, Egypt, Europe, and today’s modern approaches in North America.
2. Reflexology for Every Body, Cautions, and Contraindications – a discussion on the benefits of authentic reflexology treatments, common reasons folks utilize this therapy, as well as cautions, and contraindications when reflexology is not advised.
3. Structure and Function of the Foot and Lower Leg – a deep dive into the arches, bones, and tissues of the feet lay a framework of understanding the mechanics of foot functionality and movement.
4. Anatomical Locations of Reflexes – mapping the feet onto the body has always been a bit of a science and an artistic application. Let’s explore where each organ, gland, and part goes in this lesson.
5. Sanitation and Hygiene in the Reflexology Practice – working with the human microbiome under the lens of public health is an important aspect of any bodywork professional and we’ll explore industry best practices here.
6. Introduction to Session Documentation – in this lesson we’ll dive into keeping a written record of our client interactions in a clear, concise format that is easy to replicate in repeat visits.

These lectures are delivered live via Zoom and are recorded for participants who cannot make the live lesson.

Following the Zoom lectures are three days of in-person practicum offered in the Austin, Texas studio. They include:

Day One:

• Observing the Feet – we’ll interact with each other’s feet to explore stress cues, longitudinal zones and guidelines, as well as the four main types of foot shapes;
• Introduction to Reflex Techniques – we’ll practice finger, thumb, and knuckle techniques unique to the field of reflexology;
• Preparing the Feet – we’ll practice a routine to prepare the feet for a comprehensive reflexology session.

Day Two:

• Gait and Footwear Analysis – observing each other’s feet to put our anatomy into practice we’ll see what stress cues we can pick up on – bring your most comfortable shoes you wear often!
• Reflexing the Spinal Cord and Column – partnering with a classmate, we’ll map out the spine on the feet and put our new reflex techniques into practice;
• Reflexing Body Regions – partnering with a classmate we’ll map out body regions and apply reflex techniques to them.

Day Three:

• Taking a Health History – partnering with a classmate, we’ll practice taking a basic health history using our new session documentation skills;
• Thirty Minute Foot Routine – we’ll pull together days one and two to give and receive a ~30 minute foot reflexology treatment with classmates;
• Areas of Emphasis – armed with a ~30 minute general routine we’ll dip our toes into session planning skills to hone in on areas that need a bit more attention than others.

By the end of this first course participants will have a 30 minutes, or longer, foot reflexology routine using the American Standard method of reflexology. This can readily be used on friends and family, in an existing field of practice like massage or physical therapy, or can be a foundation to launch into the intermediate course in our Reflexology Program.

Zoom lectures are scheduled as follow in Central time:

1. Thursday, January 16th, 8am-12pm
2. Thursday, January 23rd, 8am-12pm
3. Thursday, January 30th, 8am-12pm
4. Thursday, February 20th, 8am-12pm
5. Thursday, February 27th, 8am-12pm
6. Thursday, March 6th, 8am-12pm

Practicum days in the Austin, Texas studio will be held on:

1. Thursday, March 20th, 9am-5pm
2. Friday, March 21st, 9am-5pm
3. Saturday, March 22nd, 9am-5pm

Tea and snacks are provided for during scheduled times, students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch. The onsite kitchen provides a microwave, toaster oven, and gas range.

Registration

To register, visit the Foundations in Reflexology page on our user portal over on Practice Better. Pay the $396 tuition (in one payment or two) and respond to application questions during the online checkout process. You will receive a confirmation via email (check your spam folder!) and an invitation to create an account in the student portal. You can use the contact form to send an email if you have questions or schedule a Student Advising via Zoom with Amy.

Registration is open to all with seating for ten (10) participants working on classmates during the practicum. This level is offered a couple times a year for folks to learn a 30 minute routine to practice on loved ones or integrated into an existing bodywork or acupuncture practice.

Tuition

$600 for Level One – Foundations in Reflexology

Class Refund Policy

Class payments are non-refundable, but may be used towards future classes within a twelve month period if you contact us to withdraw within two weeks (14 days) BEFORE the start of class. If you withdraw with less than two weeks (14 days) from the start of class all payments made are non-refundable or transferrable and any balance owed is still due if your payment plan is not complete. Your tuition covers the cost of a seat in the course, whether or not you are in attendance. If you have to miss classes we will help you make up the missed material. We know that circumstances change and life challenges come up, but we cannot make exceptions.

Course Materials

You will need the following three books for Foundations in Reflexology:

1. The Complete Guide to Reflexology by Ruth Hull (second edition or higher)
2. The Original Works of Eunice D. Ingham
3. Human Anatomy Coloring Book by Margaret Matt

Who Should Attend:

• Individuals interested in holistic and wellness therapies
• Aspiring reflexologists and massage therapists
• Health and wellness practitioners seeking to expand their skills
• Anyone looking to improve their personal well-being through reflexology